Lydia Hansen's Crocheted Fungi Hunts Lure Hikers to Native Midwest Mushrooms

This summer, Minnesota artist Lydia Hansen's immersive fiber art initiative, Fungi Hunt, is set to make its third appearance at the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro, Minnesota, continuing until October 31. Launched in 2023 along the Lost Creek Hiking Trail near Chatfield, the project features crocheted models of local fungi, including turkey tail, oyster mushroom, pheasantback, giant puffball, golden oyster, and chicken of the woods, strategically placed on hiking paths to inspire hikers to engage with their environment. Hansen utilizes recycled yarn and attaches her creations to dead wood temporarily. Funding from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council has facilitated the installation, enabling Hansen to hire Minnesota naturalist Tanner Barnharst for interpretive signage, addressing issues with internet access for scientific information. A complimentary guided mycology hike with Hansen and Barnharst is planned for August 16. Hansen is also organizing her largest hunt yet across three parks in Olmsted County for next summer and is curating a fungi-themed exhibition at Kouba Gallery in Bloomington, Minnesota, with plans for future installations beyond the local area.